EQUINE FACILITATED LEARNING
What Horses Teach Us About Being Human
Equine facilitated learning (EFL) is a cornerstone of my work and, let me tell you, it’s powerful.
Horses, with their intuitive and emotional intelligence, reflect the truths we often try to hide. They don’t just follow commands—they respond to how we show up, providing insights that traditional coaching just can’t access.
In an EFL session, it’s not about learning to ride, pony-patting or ‘messing about in the paddock’. It’s about partnering with the horse to gain clarity, insight, and emotional breakthroughs. Whether you’re working on leadership, team dynamics, or personal growth, my horses and I help create an environment where transformation can happen in the most profound way.
INTRODUCING THE TEAM:
My Four-Legged Changemakers
My herd are living metaphors for challenging norms, breaking boundaries, and unlocking untapped potential. Each of these powerful co-facilitators brings a unique energy that defies the expectations of what leadership, communication, and confidence can look like.
LENNIE
Lennie doesn’t need to shout to be heard. This Arab might seem reserved at first, but she commands attention by being present and grounded. Her way of navigating life reminds us that real change happens when you’re fully in the moment—not when you're trying to fit into the chaos. Lennie teaches us how to embrace change with quiet determination.
What you’ll learn from Lennie:
Adaptability, Inner Strength, Presence
The Quiet Rebel
ZAHRA (2008 – 2022)
Though she’s no longer with us, Zahra’s legacy is woven into the heart of everything Heidi does. Zahra’s story is one of transformation—from shy and unsure to confident and generous. Her journey is a testament to the fact that, no matter your past, you can grow, flourish, and make an impact on the world around you. Zahra will always remind us that trust is a powerful force.
What Zahra’s story teaches:
Trust, Transformation, Grace
The Legacy of Trust
BILLY
A Welsh Cob who understands that true leadership isn’t loud—it’s about clarity and consistency. Billy’s gift is showing people that even in the face of anxiety or uncertainty, clear communication is the key to unlocking peace of mind. He’s patient, grounded, and one of the most steadfast guides in navigating complex emotions.
What you’ll learn from Billy:
Clear Communication, Patience, Calming Leadership
The Gentle Leader
GERTIE
Don’t be fooled by her size—Gertie is a miniature powerhouse. This Shetland pony’s mischievous streak is her superpower, showing us that boundaries are powerful when set with conviction. In a world where everyone tries to conform, Gertie teaches us that it’s okay to take up space and that size, status, or expectations don’t define impact.
What you’ll learn from Gertie:
Boundaries, Courage, Boldness
The Firecracker in Miniature
CLOUD
Cloud is curious and always on the lookout for new experiences. He embodies the spirit of exploration—showing us that growth happens when you take the time to understand new things, but also when you know you can trust those around you. His energy reminds us to keep learning, stay curious, and find trust in both ourselves and others.
What you’ll learn from Cloud:
Curiosity, Trust, Navigating New Territory
The Visionary Explorer
WORK WITH YOUR OWN HORSE
As much as I love working with my herd, I know there’s something truly special about the connection between you and your own horse. If you’re seeking to deepen that bond or explore personal growth alongside your equine companion, I offer the option to include your horse in our sessions. Together, we’ll work in partnership with your horse as a powerful part of the journey to uncovering new insights, building trust, and creating a more meaningful connection.
After all, who better to guide you through transformation than the one who already knows you best?
INTERESTED IN EFL TRAINING OR MENTORING?
Beyond offering EFL to my clients, I also work with aspiring and qualified practitioners. If you're newly qualified, thinking about adding EFL to your toolkit, or just curious about this incredible modality, I offer exploratory sessions to help you decide if it's the right path for you. For those already immersed in the practice, my mentoring sessions provide support, feedback, and growth opportunities as you deepen your skills.
Success Stories
REAL-LIFE TRANSFORMATIONS THROUGH EFL
REDISCOVERING CONFIDENCE IN LEADERSHIP
Ben, a shy and early-career leader in a large charity, was struggling with self-belief and communication. These issues were trickling into his personal life, leaving him unable to voice his needs. During an equine-facilitated session with Billy, one of my horses, Ben’s anxiety became clear. Billy mirrored Ben’s nervous energy by continually moving away when approached, showing us the very tension that Ben was trying to ignore.
Through NLP techniques and mindfulness exercises, Ben was able to ground himself and approach Billy with more confidence, reflecting how he began to show up in his work. By the end of our time together, he had not only grown as a leader but also started forming more authentic relationships with his colleagues and loved ones.
Ben
FINDING FREEDOM & CONFIDENCE
"For years, I struggled with feeling trapped in my own life—overwhelmed by responsibilities and unsure of how to move forward. Working with Heidi helped me break free from that feeling of being stuck. She encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and gave me the tools to rebuild my confidence."
"Through her support, I’ve learned to embrace new challenges, establish boundaries, and feel lighter in both mind and spirit. I’m no longer scared to explore new opportunities, and I’ve regained my sense of independence. Life truly feels like an adventure again, and I’m looking forward to the positive steps ahead."
Taylor
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